Vance Meets Vatican Officials Amid Migrant Policy Tensions

U.S. Vice President JD Vance, a Catholic convert, met with the Vatican's top officials, including Cardinal Pietro Parolin and Archbishop Paul Gallagher, amid ongoing tensions regarding the U.S. administration's migrant policies and recent papal criticism. Discussions centered on international conflicts, humanitarian issues, and the rights of migrants, refugees, and prisoners, reflecting the Vatican's concerns over the Trump administration's stance. The talks were described as cordial, with both sides reaffirming a commitment to religious freedom and acknowledging the valuable service the Catholic Church provides to vulnerable populations in the U.S. The Vatican expressed hope for continued collaboration with the U.S. government. Vance and his family also participated in Good Friday liturgies at St. Peter’s Basilica, though it was not confirmed if he met with Pope Francis, who is recovering from pneumonia. The meeting followed recent statements by Pope Francis condemning U.S. plans for mass migrant deportations, which have drawn sharp responses from American officials.